By Chrissy M. Thornton
By now, the buzz around Associated Black Charities’ (ABC) event, The Cookout, has reached every corner of Baltimore and beyond. Described as a celebration of Black joy, unity and community empowerment, The Cookout was a beautiful and necessary reminder of the importance of gathering, celebrating and claiming space. It also turned out to be much more than just a social event—it became a symbol of resilience and the audacity of Black people to thrive, even in the face of hate.
Before the event, the press releases told us what to expect: a day filled with music, food and the kind of energy that only Baltimore knows how to bring. From performances by local icons like DJ Tanz and Scola Dinero of Dru Hill fame, to awe-inspiring acts like Nia Simone, the Fatal Attraction Step Squad and the Baltimore Twilighters Marching Band, it was poised to be a perfect day. And for the kids, there were inflatables, face painting, balloon twisting, popcorn, cotton candy and even a visit from Black Panther himself!
The Harbor Bank of Maryland played a vital role as the presenting sponsor of The Cookout, showcasing their ongoing commitment to economic empowerment and community development. Onsite at the event, Harbor Bank provided attendees with access to valuable financial resources, including opening new bank accounts with a $100 deposit incentive, directly supporting the financial well-being of individuals and families in attendance. Their presence not only underscored the importance of financial inclusion within the Black community, but also highlighted the powerful impact that Black-owned institutions can have in fostering economic growth and stability. Harbor Bank’s participation in The Cookout was a testament to their dedication to uplifting the community and ensuring that all Marylanders have the tools to build wealth and secure their financial futures.
Still, in the weeks leading up to The Cookout, the atmosphere was thick with something else—racist and violent rhetoric that sought to undermine the very essence of this event. It seems that the notion of Black people gathering to celebrate themselves, their culture and their collective power was too much for some. Social media lit up with comments such as “I guess honkies aren’t invited,” “What the f*** about White culture?,” and even more sinister threats that prompted Associated Black Charities to file a formal report with Baltimore City police and involve Homeland Security. These weren’t idle threats– ABC was forced to invest nearly $7,000 in additional security to ensure the safety and well-being of attendees.
The political climate fostered by radical White supremacists and MAGA Republicans has emboldened hateful rhetoric and behavior. Their dehumanizing tactics, their refusal to acknowledge the significance of Black joy, and their audacity to suggest that Black lives and Black celebrations are somehow threatening, have created an environment where public safety concerns are no longer a precaution, but a necessity. From racist caricatures of Governor Wes Moore and Mayor Brandon Scott on event posts to violent insinuations about shootings at the event, it’s clear that the ignorance and hatred are not just pervasive but increasingly bold.
Yet despite all of this—despite the hate, the vitriol and the outright threats—The Cookout turned out to be a massive success, exceeding every expectation. The weather was gorgeous, and even more beautiful was the sense of community. Black families from all walks of life and allies from other communities came together, their laughter filling the air as music played and food vendors offered mouthwatering dishes from some of Baltimore’s finest Black-owned businesses. Free hot dogs, Rita’s Italian Ice, and a host of Black-owned food trucks served up the kind of cuisine that can only be described as soul-nourishing.
The day began with a prayer from Bishop Douglas Logan of Zion Hill Baptist Church, and the rendering of the Negro National Anthem by songstress Jessika Williams, setting the tone for what would be a powerful gathering. Elected officials like Maryland Comptroller Brooke Lierman and City Council President Nick Mosby and a host of Baltimore City Delegates also joined, offering their words of solidarity. But perhaps the most moving moment came during the Movement March for Equity, led by myself, along with Nick Mosby. Reminiscent of civil rights marches of the past, participants carried signs, sang and chanted as they walked in unity for diversity, equity and inclusion. This was not just a walk—it was a statement, a declaration that the fight for the economic, social and political well-being of Black people will continue, no matter the opposition. At the rally point, the group stopped for reflection and enjoyed a stirring performance of “Rise Up” by professional musician, Crystal Freeman. It actually moved me to tears.
The irony is not lost that the very people who sought to sabotage this event missed its true purpose. They failed to see that their hatred and ignorance have no place at The Cookout—neither literally, nor figuratively. The space we create for ourselves is sacred, built on trust, love and shared experiences. And while White allies who genuinely support our causes attended en masse and are always welcome, those who carry hate in their hearts are decidedly not invited.
As I stated in my opening remarks, The Cookout was a celebration of Black unity, a reminder of our power and a demonstration that no amount of hate will stop the movement. Those who continue to spew ignorance might have thought they were tearing something down, but in reality, they only strengthened our resolve. The ignorance they displayed won’t slow the progress toward equity, and it certainly won’t stop the work of Associated Black Charities.
The Cookout’s gathering transcended lived experiences, demographics and socioeconomic status. It was a true reflection of the richness and diversity within the Black community—families, youth, elders, professionals and creatives, all convening in solidarity and purpose.
This coming together was significant because it demonstrated that, despite different backgrounds or challenges, the shared mission of advancing Black equity and empowerment is one that unites us all. It was also a reminder that collective action is a force that cannot be diminished by external attempts to divide. However, despite the broad participation, the media presence was noticeably lacking, with only the AFRO and WMAR providing coverage. The absence of other local news outlets, many of which regularly amplify the struggles and negative portrayals of Black life in Baltimore, was glaring. Their failure to see the importance and urgency of covering such a positive and unifying event speaks volumes about the narratives they choose to uplift. In their absence, the community’s power and resilience were on full display for those who chose to witness and embrace it.
Unfortunately, the political climate that nurtures hateful behavior is not just a problem for Black people—it’s a threat to us all. And now, more than ever, we must act. It is no longer enough to be “good people.” Being passive in the face of racism, violence and bigotry is complicity. The fight for diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI) requires active participation, not just from Black people, but from our White and other allies, public officials and every person of good conscience. Baltimore and the state of Maryland must stake their claim in DEI efforts now, or risk becoming a breeding ground for further division and hatred.
The Cookout was a day of celebration, but it was also a call to action. As we danced, sang and shared space, we reminded the world that Black joy is revolutionary. The day ended in powerful unity, a reaffirmation of why we gather and why we will continue to do so—because our joy, our culture and our community are worth fighting for.
For all who weren’t there, you missed a moment of true beauty. For those who allowed their ignorance to cloud their understanding, you missed an opportunity to learn, grow and be part of something bigger than yourself. The work of dismantling racism and building equity will continue, with or without you. We must keep marching. And for those still stuck in the past, your ignorance will never stop the future we are building.
In fact, this was just the beginning.
The post ‘The Cookout’ – a joyous display of Black unity amidst unyielding racism appeared first on AFRO American Newspapers.
